Exploring the intersections of law, religion and culture.
Copyright by Richard J. Radcliffe. All rights reserved.

Friday, December 22, 2006

Pro Per Poetry.

Today I did battle in court with a pro per litigant.

Almost invariably, pro pers make for great drama. Today was no exception. The gentleman employed a simple strategy: talk faster.

In his mind, there was no need to file any written opposition; no need to support his arguments with any evidence or law; and no need to stay within the facts. He made up for the lack of substance with a rapid speaking style that would rival a carnival barker's. It didn't work, but at least no profanity was involved. Another pro per couldn't resist attacking the trial judge in his notice of appeal: Best Notice of Appeal Ever? (via abovethelaw.com).

About Me

Like the blog motto, my background is an intersection of law and theology.
I hold three graduate degrees. Two are in law (a J.D. and an LL.M. in Taxation), and one is in theology.
In law school, I served on the Law Review, and received the American Jurisprudence Award in Trial Advocacy.
Likewise, my professional background is an intersection of law and education.
In addition to being a named partner in an A-V rated Newport Beach, California trial and appellate law firm, emphasizing business and real estate, I've taught Constitutional law, civil procedure and ethics in law school. I am also a published author.
I live at the beach in Southern California, and am a fitness, book, music, film and travel enthusiast.
Reach me at rjr (at) reichradcliffe (dot) com.
Follow me at twitter.com/nblaw